While the second round of the 2025 NBA Draft has yet to begin, the Los Angeles Lakers have made a surprising move involving the Chicago Bulls.
According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, the Lakers swapped second-round draft picks with the Bulls on Thursday.
“The Los Angeles Lakers are moving up in the second round of the NBA Draft tonight, acquiring the No. 45 pick from the Chicago Bulls for No. 55 and cash," Charania reported Thursday.
“Lakers move up 10 picks as they eye a young talent in the second round of the draft tonight.”
After the first round, it can be challenging for teams to make draft selections. With ample wild cards being available, it’s essentially a guessing game for franchises.
Still, it’s worth noting that there’s one particular NBA hopeful who should be on the Lakers’ roster.
Follow The Sporting News on WhatsApp
With the organization needing a center that can provide stable low-post production and stout rim protection, they should consider drafting Creighton standout Ryan Kalkbrenner.
Kalkbrenner is known for finishing lobs in pick-and-roll situations and protecting the rim by any means necessary.
Kalkbrenner averaged 19.2 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 2.7 blocks per game, shooting 65.3% from the field in 35 contests.
The Florissant, Missouri native also improved his three-point shooting over time with the Blue Jays, recording a 34.4% three-point shooting percentage as a senior after starting his collegiate career with a non-existent perimeter game.
If Kalkbrenner is still on the board at No. 45, the Lakers may select the polished 23-year-old man.
More NBA: Knicks may cut ties with disappointing $150 million duo after Eastern Conference Finals exit